Quick Opinion: Black homicide rate still not a priority

April 10, 2013|By Doug Lyons

I’ve come to believe the life of a black American carries less value than those of others. Call it a Plessy v. Ferguson, 3/5ths of a man carryover. The recent American Journal of Medicine article, which was co-written by an FAU professor, that found homicide to be the leading cause of death for young black men is just my latest “Exhibit A.”

In Palm Beach County, Fla., alone, homicides kill more than five times as many 18 to 24 year old black men than car accidents. The study’s finding mirrors national statistics but it offers scant details on the problem’s cause. That, researchers say, comes later.

Homicides of young black males isn’t a priority. Loud voice will assess blame as precious few seek a genuine solution. The study is appreciated, even if the problem isn’t.